State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku today underscored the government's commitment to expanding sports and intensifying efforts to build a drug-free Bangladesh. He made the remarks while inaugurating the 'Deputy Commissioner Gold Cup Football Tournament' at Shahid Maruf Stadium in Tangail, as the chief guest.
Promoting Sports Across the Country
Tuku highlighted the government's various initiatives to promote sports, including district-level football competitions under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, aimed at encouraging youth participation. He called on players and spectators to uphold harmony, sportsmanship, and brotherhood, stressing that no violence or unpleasant incidents should overshadow sporting events.
'Sports inspire young people, bring communities together and guide the youth towards a positive future,' he said, adding that further steps would be taken to strengthen sports infrastructure and activities in Tangail.
Commitment to a Drug-Free Bangladesh
Highlighting the government's anti-drug campaign, Tuku said there would be 'no compromise' in tackling narcotics, describing a drug-free Bangladesh as a national priority. The state minister urged people from all walks of life to remain vigilant to protect the country's younger generation.
Tournament Details and Historical Context
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Tangail Deputy Commissioner Sharifa Haque, District BNP President Hasanuzzaman Shaheen, District Football Association President Advocate Ali Imam Tapan, and other senior officials, political leaders, and sports organizers. A total of 12 upazila teams are competing in this year's tournament, with each team allowed to field up to five foreign guest players.
In the opening match, Tangail Sadar Upazila defeated Basail Upazila 3-0. Five other matches were also played across the district on Saturday. The second round of league fixtures is scheduled for July 13, followed by the Super Six stage from July 15 to 19. The semi-finals will be held on July 28 and 29, while the final is set to take place at Tangail Stadium on August 1.
Notably, the 'Deputy Commissioner Gold Cup Football Tournament' in Tangail once saw the participation of famous Bangladeshi clubs, including Mohammedan and Abahani. The tournament was first organized in 1980 by then Deputy Commissioner Md. Rezaul Islam, sparking a renaissance in the sports world. The tournament was last held in 2015, with Tangail Youth Club as the champion and Dhaka BJMC as the runner-up.
